Lived Religion and the Transition Toward Gender Equity in the Chilean Christian Field

This paper explores the paradoxes and challenges of gender equity transitions within the Christian religious field in Chile and Latin America. It examines how feminist movements and gender studies have challenged the deeply ingrained patriarchal structures in both society and religious institutions. Traditionally, Christianity—both Catholicism and Evangelical Churches—has reinforced gender norms that limit women’s autonomy. However, feminist theology, has offered more inclusive interpretations of sacred texts, advocating for gender justice and women's rights.

A key paradox is the "feminization of religiosity," where women increasingly participate in religious practices as men move toward secularism. While power dynamics within religious institutions remain patriarchal, this growing female participation signals a broader transition toward gender equity.

The transition toward gender equity in churches, despite the challenges, has only been possible due to the emergence of new feminine spiritualities. These experiences of embodied mysticism can be considered forms of lived religion, which, through the redefinition of women's daily lives within the context of their families and communities, also challenge religious and social hierarchies. In this way, new expressions of faith emerge, blending traditional elements with innovative spiritual practices, thereby redefining the roles and identities of women in both churches and society. The presentation discusses the findings of recent qualitative research conducted in grassroots Catholic communities and Pentecostal congregations in Santiago, Chile.